POTHOS PLANTS are a favorite among indoor plant enthusiasts for their easy care and attractive trailing vines. But if you are wondering how to get your pothos to climb, you have come to the right place. Follow these practical steps to encourage your pothos to climb:

Choose the Right Support Structure

There are many indoor plant support structures. However, moss poles, trellis, or wall-mounted hooks are the best for supporting your climbing pothos. Ensure the structure is sturdy and tall enough to accommodate growth.

Prepare the Support

If using a moss pole (pictured ⬆), soak it in water before inserting it into the pot. This helps the aerial roots adhere better. For wall-mounted hooks, position them where the plant receives adequate light.

Train Your Plant

Gently wrap the vines around the support structure. Use soft plant ties, twist ties, or even pieces of string to secure the vines without damaging them. Check regularly and adjust as needed to encourage upward growth.

Prune for Direction

Trim the ends of the vines that stray from the support structure. This redirects the plant’s energy towards climbing and helps maintain a neat appearance.

Provide Adequate Light

Place your pothos in a bright, indirect light spot. While pothos tolerates low light, brighter conditions promote vigorous growth, essential for climbing.

Ensure Proper Watering and Humidity

Water your pothos when the top inch of soil feels dry. Increase humidity around the plant by misting regularly or using a humidity tray, which benefits the aerial roots and overall growth.

Choose the Right Fertilizer

Use a balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer diluted to half strength. Feed your pothos monthly during the growing season (spring and summer).

Apply Fertilizer Correctly

Pour the fertilizer solution directly into the soil, avoiding the leaves. Regular feeding encourages lush growth, supporting the climbing process.

Perform Regular Inspection

Check your pothos weekly for pests, diseases, or signs of stress. Early detection helps you address issues promptly, ensuring continuous healthy growth.

Adjust Ties and Supports

As your pothos grows, adjust the ties and supports to accommodate new growth. This prevents the vines from becoming tangled or damaged.

How to Get Your Pothos to Climb FAQs

Q: How long does it take for pothos to start climbing?

A: It typically takes a few weeks for pothos to start climbing once it has been trained onto a support structure. The growth rate can vary depending on light, water, and overall care conditions.

Q: Can I train my pothos to climb a wall?

A: Yes, you can train your pothos to climb a wall using wall-mounted hooks or adhesive plant clips. Be sure to position the hooks where the plant receives enough light and regularly guide the vines to encourage upward growth.

Q: What should I do if my pothos isn’t climbing?

A: If your pothos isn’t climbing, check that it has adequate light, proper watering, and sufficient support. Ensure the vines are secured gently to the support structure and consider trimming any wayward vines to direct energy towards climbing.

Q: Do I need to repot my pothos for it to climb?

A: You don’t necessarily need to repot your pothos for it to climb, but if the plant is root-bound or the soil quality has degraded, repotting can encourage healthier growth. Use a well-draining potting mix and choose a pot that allows room for root expansion.

Final Thoughts

Transforming your pothos into a climbing beauty is both rewarding and straightforward. By choosing the right support, guiding the vines, optimizing growing conditions, and maintaining regular care, you ensure your pothos thrives as a stunning climbing centerpiece.